About the Organization
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization dedicated to protecting and assisting people forced to flee conflict, persecution, or disasters. Operating in 137 countries, UNHCR employs over 18,800 professionals working tirelessly to provide life-saving aid, shelter, food, water, and medical care to displaced populations.
Working with UNHCR offers a unique opportunity to combine professional growth with meaningful humanitarian impact. Staff gain experience in operational management, logistics, procurement, and administration while contributing directly to the safety and well-being of vulnerable communities. UNHCR values professionalism, integrity, and diversity, and strongly encourages women and underrepresented groups to apply.
Job Description
The Senior Building Services Assistant is responsible for providing leadership and operational support within the Building Management Unit in Melkadida, Ethiopia. Reporting to the Building Services Associate, this role ensures efficient delivery of building services, including maintenance, logistics, and event support, while maintaining strong relationships with third-party service providers.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing assigned service requests and delegating work to third-party service providers when necessary.
- Monitoring compliance of contractors with agreed terms of reference and recommending corrective actions.
- Supporting the supervisor in procurement and management of items and services required for building maintenance.
- Coordinating and supporting the organization of events and receptions, liaising with internal units to ensure all requirements are met.
- Managing official vehicle operations, including maintenance, scheduling, and transportation services.
- Supporting warehouse operations, including receiving and cataloguing equipment, verifying purchase orders, preparing shipments, and maintaining proper storage.
- Managing invoices, purchase orders, receipts, and UNHCR ERP system entries (MSRP).
- Providing support to the Mail and Stationery Unit as needed.
- Planning and scheduling delivery of services to meet organizational needs efficiently.
- Identifying risks, escalating issues, and proposing continuous improvement initiatives for the unit.
- Performing other related duties to ensure smooth operations of the Building Management Unit.
This role is essential for ensuring operational efficiency and service reliability, directly contributing to UNHCR’s mission to protect and assist displaced communities.
Educational Qualification
- High School Diploma with at least 2 years of relevant experience, or
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with at least 1 year of relevant experience.
A valid driving license is required. Familiarity with ERP systems, financial management, supply chain processes, and building management operations is essential.
Work Experience
- Essential: Experience in support services, building maintenance, logistics, financial management, procurement, and staff supervision.
- Desirable: Knowledge of UN administrative, human resources, and financial rules; familiarity with Microsoft Office; understanding of local suppliers and service providers. Experience liaising with diverse vendors is advantageous.
Required Skills and Competencies
- Proficiency in ERP financial management (SAP, Oracle, PeopleSoft, Workday, or equivalent).
- Supply chain management expertise using PeopleSoft or similar systems.
- Knowledge of UN/UNHCR procurement rules and procedures.
- Strong computer literacy and IT skills.
- Ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders, manage staff, and oversee contractors.
- Attention to detail, planning, and organizational skills.
- Effective communication in English and the local UN working language.
- Commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and harassment-free workplace.
Job Location
Melkadida, Ethiopia
Employment Type and Salary
This is a full-time, residential, non-family position under UNOPS LICA 5. The position offers a competitive salary aligned with UNHCR’s LICA 5 grade scale and provides substantial professional development opportunities in a high-hardship environment.
Professional Growth and Career Impact
This position provides an excellent opportunity to develop leadership, technical, and operational skills in a humanitarian context. The role involves managing building services, coordinating logistics and procurement, supervising staff, and improving operational efficiency. Candidates will gain hands-on experience with ERP systems, supply chain management, and event coordination while directly contributing to UNHCR’s humanitarian mission.
Diversity and Inclusion
UNHCR fosters an inclusive and diverse workforce. Women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. The organization ensures fair treatment, equal opportunity, and a work environment where all staff can thrive and perform to their full potential.
Application Process
- Applications are accepted only through the UNHCR online recruitment platform.
- Scanned certificates or attachments are not required at the initial application stage.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- UNHCR does not charge any fees during recruitment; beware of fraudulent job offers.
Deadline for Applications
March 15, 2026
Summary
Joining UNHCR as a Senior Building Services Assistant in Melkadida, Ethiopia, provides a unique opportunity to develop professionally while making a direct impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of UNHCR operations. The role involves leadership in building management, procurement, logistics, warehouse operations, and event coordination. Candidates will gain valuable experience in administrative and operational systems, supervisory responsibilities, and stakeholder management while contributing to the safety and well-being of displaced populations in a high-hardship environment.